The Itanagar Police have successfully dismantled a gang responsible for a series of thefts in the Itanagar Capital Region. Following a month-long investigation, the arrests were made by a dedicated team led by Inspector K. Yangfo, Officer-in-Charge of Police Station Itanagar, with support from IPS officer Vivek Kr. Maurya and Sub-Inspectors RK Jha, Padam Padi, Tana Suraj, and Samuel Ngupok, under the supervision of SDPO Itanagar, Shri Kengo Dirchi.
Reported Incidents
- December 11, 2024: A complainant reported the theft of ₹3,00,000 from their car parked outside the SBI Itanagar branch. The suspects distracted the victim by dropping fake currency notes and stole the cash bag during the confusion.
- December 9, 2024: Miss Milli Ossen reported cash stolen from her scooter parked in the basement of V-Mart, Ganga Market.
- October 28, 2024: ATM engineer Sri Dipak Deori reported the theft of ₹1,50,000 and personal documents while servicing a cash deposit machine at the SBI Main Branch Itanagar.
Arrests and Recoveries
On January 3, 2025, acting on a tip-off, police apprehended two suspects near SBI Itanagar. A third suspect was later arrested at Harmutty Railway Station based on their confessions.
- Arrested Individuals:
- Chandan Gowala (57): Resident of Rajganj, Jalpaiguri, West Bengal.
- Deepak Sharma (57): Resident of Baradari, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh.
- Rakesh (47): Resident of Rajganj, Jalpaiguri, West Bengal.
A Hero Honda Glamour motorcycle with a fake registration number, used in the crimes, was also recovered.
Modus Operandi
The gang targeted bank premises and parking areas, observing individuals withdrawing or handling large amounts of cash. They employed deceptive tactics, such as dropping fake currency notes or creating distractions, to steal valuables. Their elderly appearance and temporary residency in Arunachal Pradesh helped them avoid suspicion.
Police Advisory
Superintendent of Police Rohit Rajbir Singh, IPS, issued safety guidelines urging citizens to:
- Avoid leaving large sums of cash unattended in vehicles.
- Stay vigilant around banks and report suspicious activities.
- Utilize secure parking spaces and ensure vehicles are properly locked.
The SP praised the relentless efforts of the police team, commended their dedication in solving these cases, and assured suitable rewards for their exemplary work. The Itanagar Police reaffirm their commitment to ensuring public safety and combating criminal activities.
